Choosing Gratitude Day 4 – benefits inventory

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits . . .” Psalm 103:1-2

Why recite back to God what He already knows? Because I so easily forget. The immediate, the temporary, looms in front of me, overshadowing what is true and lasting.

Our brains retain more of what we read if we read it aloud AND write it down (hint: that is a reason why teachers had you take notes in school, and why many sermons and bible study lessons have outline handouts for you to fill in)

Benefits inventory
1. God forgives all my iniquity. My salvation is not partial. It is not started for me to finish if I can be good enough. Jesus paid it all.
2. God heals all your diseases. Yes, God can physically heal on this earth. And God does heal. God uses doctors and medicine. But even if He chooses not to physically heal on this earth, EVERYONE in heaven has a disease-free glorified body, for all eternity. 3. God redeems my life from the pit. I have hope. God has a purpose for me.
4. God crowns me with steadfast love and mercy. I am loved, not merely tolerated.
5. God satisfies me with good so that my youth is renewed like the eagle’s. I don’t have to keep reaching for that prize that is always just out of reach. God is good to me. Always.
6. God works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. Again, even if I do not see complete justice now, in the final judgment every sin will be paid for–either covered by Jesus’ blood on the cross, or in eternal hell.
7. God makes His ways known. He has given me His Word. He tells me not only how to obey, but also how much He loves me. It’s not a guess.
8. God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He is not fickle. He is not moody.
9. God knows I am a child, that I am not perfect. God is my perfect father. He is compassionate and merciful. Jesus paid the penalty for my sin, and gave me His righteousness.

Bless the Lord, O my soul!

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